In Part 1 of our series, we examined how commercial
building managers can create a strong business case for investment in
energy conservations measures (ECMs) as part of their high performance
building journey. In this piece, we will look further into the
strategies and tools for justifying the up-front costs using a
holistic approach that includes tangible and intangible benefits.

When you reach the point where your ECM project is finally
implemented, give yourself a quick pat on the back and then plan for
some follow-up action steps. For example, execute regular reports that
address the following:

The impact the project is having on your organization.

A report of the results: How much energy are you saving? How
much money are you saving as a result? How does this compare to the
up-front cost?

Assess the results by aggregation versus
standalone.

Use any building automation tools, dashboards and
software tools to maximize the building’s operations and provide the
detailed reports needed to track the ROI.

If the ECM has a direct effect on the building’s occupants, such as
more natural lighting, be sure to get feedback from them as well. Are
they more productive? Do they have greater enjoyment coming to work?
Although the hard numbers and results are typically the most
important, occupant perception and reaction can provide a colorful
human element to your hard work in making the ECM a reality.

To successfully communicate the benefits of an ECM for your
commercial building, consider the following strategies before
approaching leadership:

Build a solid financial case: Know your numbers inside and
out.

Note the market conditions that may make the investment
a wise decision today, rather wait for the future. For example,
energy and operating costs rise faster than most other costs.

Be familiar with the regulatory and political conditions that
can also make the argument for action now, rather than waiting. For
example, climate change legislation may incur more cost on buildings
that use more energy, or there may be government incentives for
supporting and stimulating companies that invest in
sustainability.

Tie in any corporate initiatives or create
your own, such as a focus on controlling operating costs or setting
renewable energy/energy efficiency goals.

Note the benefits
to the company’s brand, such as leveraging a public commitment to
sustainability for better talent recruitment and retention.

By identifying and communicating the tangible and intangible
benefits of ECM investments, building managers can build a stronger
case to company leadership that the cost of efficiency will not only
be paid back, but the additional benefits to the company’s brand and
productivity can contribute even more value.

Click
here to learn more about resource use and sustainability in high
performance buildings.